Walking in Portimão & Lagos: Enchanted West Algarve
Small Group Walking
Grade: Moderate (4/8)
The western Algarve is a complete contrast to the eastern Algarve, and our walks throughout this tour offer a glorious mix of coastal, mountain, and inland scenery.
The western Algarve is a complete contrast to the eastern Algarve, and our walks throughout this tour offer a glorious mix of coastal, mountain, and inland scenery.
The varied geology of the Western Algarve produces a rich diversity of scenery from granitic mountains to dramatic limestone escarpments and sea cliffs. This diversity is complemented by the local flora and fauna that flourish in the equable climate of mild, sunny winters and long, hot summers. All this, combined, makes walking here fascinating.
Lagos waterfront attractive town that was an important Roman settlement
The walks in this tour take us to all the right places so that we may discover the huge welcoming heart of the Algarve.
From the “classic” sections of the Algarve coast, we take in the perfect sandy beaches and rugged headlands with rock stacks and arches including the spectacular Ponta da Piedade, just outside Lagos.
We have the opportunity to explore inland walks that lead to hidden secrets like Silves, one of the oldest towns in Portugal, built in a series of terraces between the river and the castle.
Ponta da Piedade where the famous sea caves are to be found
We will continue our search for the hidden gems of the Western Algarve with a coastal walk starting on the resort of Luz towards Lagos, with time to visit this pretty historical town. Heading back inland, we will have a delightful walk through some typical Algarvian villages, allowing us to see the Algarve in its most rural form.
Finally, we will head to the edge of Europe, in Sagres. A walk in the Parque Natural da Costa Vicentina, the most south-westerly point of Europe where there is a chance to appreciate the abundant birdlife on one of the most important migratory routes of Europe. This escorted walking tour is led by a professional local guide.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival
Fly to Faro and transfer by road to Portimão. If time allows an introductory walk will be offered.
Silves, former Arab capital of the Algarve
Day 2 – Estômbar & Silves
We start in the traditional Algarve village of Estombar. Along the valley of the River Arade, we visit the Ecological Park of Fontes, an attractive local beauty spot. Here we find the largest limestone springs in the Algarve. At Sitio das, Fontes visitors can see a water mill, learn more about the local flora and fauna while walking along an educational trail.
The route itself enables us to explore this river valley following quiet tracks and paths so we can appreciate the diverse habitats and wildlife.
Distance: 10km/6.2mi; ascent/descent: flat
Seven Hanging Valleys
Day 3 – Seven Valleys Walk
Today we offer a fantastic coastal walk taking in one of the most famous and dramatic sections of the Algarve coastline. Towering cliffs, sea caves and grottos, superb sandy coves, and spectacular headlands including the much-photographed Benagil domed caves lined with beautiful sandstone strata.
All this can be seen during this stunning walk to finish along Carvoeiro’s renowned elevated boardwalk.
Distance: 10km/6.2mi; ascent/descent: flat
West Algarve, Walking in Silves
Day 4 – Alvor & Praia da Rocha
Today we will transfer to our next center of Lagos. Today we have a full program with a fantastic coastal walk taking in the superb sandy beaches and dramatic headlands between Alvor and Portimão, including the much-photographed beach at Praia da Rocha, one of the best in the Algarve.
The rock strata are particularly varied and very colorful, from white limestone to red sandstone. These different rocks support a wide variety of flora and, in spring, there are impressive displays of wildflowers. Hotel change.
Distance: 10km/6.2mi; ascent/descent: flat
Ponta da Piedade where the famous sea caves are to be found
Day 5 – Ponte da Piedade & Lagos
We continue our coastal theme with a spectacular walk starting from the small village and resort of Luz.
On this walk we follow a coastal path to Lagos, visiting on the way Ponta da Piedade where the famous sea caves are to be found and visited by many small boats carrying visitors from nearby Lagos.
The walk finishes in Lagos and we will have time to sightsee in this attractive town that was an important Roman settlement called ‘Lacobriga’. A variety of ancient Roman & medieval ruins remains, including the old slave market.
The town center, which is enclosed within 5th-century walls offers a modern and well-equipped marina that dominates the seafront and the town is now firmly positioned as a center for tourists from all over the world.
We have an opt-out at Ponte de Piedade allowing people to have a little more time to sightsee in Lagos.
Distance: 12km; ascent/descent: +120m/-120m
West Algarve
Day 6 – Barão De São João
We head back inland for a walk that takes in the villages of Barão de São João and Barão de São Miguel.
These charming, rural, and peaceful villages are characterized by the typical white houses with a colored border around the windows and doors.
This and the traditional Algarve chimneys demonstrate the many years of Moorish occupancy of the area.
We have an opt-out at lunchtime allowing people to relax and explore the fascinating village of Barão S. João.
Distance: 14km; ascent/descent: +-192m
Dramatic Views from West Algarve cliffs
Day 7 – Sagres & Cabo de São Vicente
Our final day on the western Algarve fittingly culminates in Sagres, the most westerly town in the Algarve.
This area of intensely dramatic cliffs, opening onto a vast horizon of sea and sky, was the last sight of Europe for the explorers setting forth on their fearsome voyages beyond the horizon.
We will also visit today the nearby Cabo de S. Vincente whose spectacular cliffs were once believed to be the end of the world.
Shared ensuite room with a traveling companion of the same sex
Single supplement available with a surcharge
Extra nights available on request
Meals
7 buffet breakfasts at the Hotel
7 Dinners with drinks included
Transport
Meet & Greet Airport Transfer to the hotel on the first day – group transfer
Transfer from the hotel to the airport on last day – group transfer
All transports to walks and activities (as outlined) with dedicated driver and vehicle
Additional transfers are available on request at an extra cost
Tour Leaders
Dedicated English speaking local tour leader
The tour leader will assist and guide the group throughout the holidays, handle all the arrangements and other needs that might arise, making sure that you don’t have to worry about planning your days and you can enjoy your holiday
Each evening, your tour leader will discuss the details and program for the following day
Walks and Activities
Walks according to program
Exclusions
Any services not listed as included
Flights to and from Portugal
Meals, tips/gratuities, baggage, or personal insurance (except as outlined)
Admission fees to castles & attractions or events (except as outlined)
Personal expenses
Supplements
Guide services inside monuments
Insurance
You must be adequately insured to join our Guided group tours and Self-Guided tours holidays. We do not insist that you insure with us but we require that you are adequately insured for the nature of your holiday.
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Please consult our Travel Insurance page, where you’ll be able to get more detailed info about insurance requirements and an immediate quote for your trip.